Batman Returns (1992)

While the Caped Crusader (Michael Keaton) is again relegated to a supporting role in his own film, fans of nasty, dark-edged Batman comics of recent years should enjoy this kinky, at times horrific updating of the character. Michelle Pfeiffer steals the show this time as the mentally broken Catwoman, who has her life ruined and gets tossed out a window early in the film, only to team up with the deformed Penguin (Danny DeVito) in a bid to take over Gotham City. Tim Burton's sequel is more personal than the first film, as the director indulges in his penchant for oddball characters and societal misfits, engendering both sympathy and revulsion in portraying his villains. Many parents and traditionalists found the result little more than a mean-spirited freakshow, but those in tune with Burton's off-kilter sensibilities will find that it actually has a great deal of heart. Whatever the case, Batman Returns is a very entertaining film and looks great. ~ Robert Firsching, All Movie Guide